If you’re a pet owner, you know how difficult it can be to leave your furry friend behind when you travel. Luckily, many airlines now allow pets to fly with their owners, and WestJet is no exception. However, before you book your next flight with your pet, it’s important to understand WestJet’s pet policy. In this blog post, we will break down the key points of their policy and provide you with all the information you need to know before traveling with your pet.
Types of Pets Allowed
WestJet allows both cats and dogs to travel in-cabin, as well as some other small household pets such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs. However, larger pets will need to travel in the cargo hold. It’s important to note that certain breeds of dogs, such as pit bulls and pit bull mixes, are not permitted on WestJet flights due to safety concerns.
Requirements for Pet Travel
Before booking your flight with your pet, there are a few requirements that you must meet. Firstly, your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and have all necessary vaccinations up-to-date. You will also need to provide a health certificate from your veterinarian, stating that your pet is healthy and safe to travel. This certificate must be issued within 10 days of your departure date.
In-Cabin Pet Policy
For pets traveling in-cabin, there is a limit of one pet per passenger. The pet must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 16″ x 17″ x 8″ and the total weight (pet + carrier) must not exceed 22 lbs. The cost for in-cabin pet travel is $50-59 CAD one way, depending on the destination.
Cargo Pet Policy
For larger pets traveling in the cargo hold, WestJet has strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet. The cost for cargo pet travel varies depending on the size and weight of your pet, as well as the destination. Additionally, pets traveling in the cargo hold must be at least 12 weeks old and have all necessary vaccinations. It’s important to note that some breeds may not be allowed to travel in the cargo hold due to extreme weather conditions.
Booking Your Flight with a Pet
If you plan on traveling with your pet, it’s important to contact WestJet as soon as possible to make a reservation. There are limited spots available for in-cabin and cargo pet travel, so it’s important to book early. You can also book your flight online, but you will need to call WestJet to add your pet to the reservation.
Additional Information
It’s important to note that WestJet only allows pets on domestic flights within Canada, as well as select international flights to the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. If you are traveling with your pet to any other international destination, you will need to look into the pet policies of the specific country and airline you will be flying with.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet can be a stressful experience, but with WestJet’s pet policy, you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend will be taken care of during the flight. However, it’s important to carefully review and follow all of WestJet’s pet policies and requirements before booking your flight. For more information, visit WestJet’s official website or contact their customer service team. Remember, a happy pet makes for a happy flight! Safe travels to you and your furry companion.